🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Solo 45 WLA

Model Designation:

WLA (War Department, Liberator, Army)

Production Years Covered By Manual:

1929-1952

Engine Code Identifier:

WLA (standardized military designation)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson WLA owners, restorers, and mechanics specializing in vintage military motorcycles

Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical data for maintaining and repairing a historically significant motorcycle, crucial for collectors and enthusiasts.

Content Completeness:

Offers a holistic approach to maintenance and repair, covering all major systems and operational aspects.

Historical Significance:

Directly supports the preservation and functionality of the iconic WLA model, widely used during WWII.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Harley-Davidson Solo 45 WLA motorcycles

Secondary Coverage:

Related models and variations within the specified production years

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (Specific count not provided, but content implies extensive coverage)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual / Workshop Book

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, troubleshooting, component repair

Fuel System:

Carburetor, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pump (if applicable)

Intake Exhaust:

Intake manifold, exhaust pipes, mufflers

Ignition System:

Magneto, spark plugs, wiring, timing

Generating System:

Dynamo, regulator, charging system

Lighting Horn:

Headlight, taillight, indicators, horn operation and repair

Clutch:

Operation, adjustment, replacement of friction plates and components

Transmission:

Gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanism, lubrication

Brakes:

Drum brake systems, linkage, adjustment

Wheels Hubs Sprockets:

Wheel balancing, spoke tension, hub maintenance, chain and sprocket wear

Steering System:

Handlebar, fork assembly, steering head bearings

Chassis Frame:

Frame inspection, welding, component mounting

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component testing (lighting, horn, ignition)

Engine Rebuild:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components

Adjustment Procedures:

Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, clutch and brake adjustments

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic steps for common and uncommon issues

Road Testing:

Guidance on post-repair road testing and performance evaluation

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools for maintenance and repair

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

Diagrams Illustrations:

Includes photos and diagrams for visual guidance

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Digital Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction for clarity

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

45 cubic inch (737cc) V-twin, side-valve (SV)

Bore X Stroke:

Approximately 2.75 x 3.0 inches (70 mm x 76 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Typically around 5.0:1 to 5.5:1 (variable based on specific model year and tuning)

Horsepower:

Approximately 18-23 HP at 4800 RPM (estimated)

Torque:

Not explicitly specified, but characteristic of its displacement class

Carburetor Type:

Linkert M-series (e.g., M88, M18)

Fuel Type:

Gasoline (historically, leaded or unleaded with appropriate additives)

Oil System:

Total Loss Lubrication System (oil mixed with fuel or injected separately)

Oil Type Recommendation:

Specific vintage motorcycle oil or equivalent with ZDDP additive recommended for flat-tappet engines

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed, constant mesh, manual

Gear Selection:

Hand-operated clutch lever and foot-operated gear shift (usually a spring-loaded return mechanism)

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain drive to transmission

Final Drive:

Chain drive to rear wheel

Transmission Lubricant:

Specific gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 or equivalent), consult manual for precise grade

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 56.5 inches (1435 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 500-550 lbs (227-250 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Historical Safety Standards:

Designed to meet military specifications of its era, not comparable to modern safety ratings.

Braking System:

Mechanical drum brakes front and rear

Frame Construction:

Robust steel frame designed for durability under demanding conditions.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

N/A (No electronic infotainment systems)

Assistance Features:

N/A (No electronic driver assistance features)

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No electronic connectivity features)

Lighting System:

Basic 6-volt electrical system for headlight, taillight, and optional stoplight/horn.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Frequent changes recommended due to total loss system (consult manual for specific mileage/time)

Clutch Adjustment:

Regular checks for proper engagement and disengagement

Chain Lubrication Adjustment:

Frequent lubrication and tension adjustment required for the final drive chain

Engine Oil Type:

High-quality motorcycle oil, preferably with ZDDP additives (e.g., 20W-50 or 50W, consult manual for exact specs)

Transmission Oil Type:

Gear oil, viscosity grade depends on ambient temperature (e.g., SAE 80W-90)

Ignition Timing:

Can be sensitive to adjustment, requiring precise timing for optimal performance.

Carburetor Tuning:

Linkert carburetors require regular cleaning and adjustment for smooth running.

Oil Leaks:

Common on vintage motorcycles due to aging seals and gaskets; manual provides guidance on replacement.

Drum Brake Performance:

Drum brakes offer limited stopping power by modern standards and require diligent maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Harley Davidson Legacy:

Harley-Davidson has a long-standing reputation for robust, American-made motorcycles, particularly known for its V-twin engines and military applications.

Wla Development:

The WLA was a militarized version of the civilian WL series, specifically adapted for service use, featuring ruggedized components and often equipped with military-specific accessories like a toolbox and blackout lighting.

Military Production Peak:

Mass-produced during World War II, with over 80,000 units manufactured. The manual's coverage extends to pre-war civilian models and post-war variants that share significant components with the WLA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Impact:

Recognized as a pivotal military motorcycle for its reliability and performance in diverse global environments during WWII.